Rural communities and agricultural producers are the beneficiaries of safety improvements and better all-weather access following today's (Thursday, March 5 2026) official opening of the Branchview Road Bridge Upgrade project.
Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) constructed a new two-lane concrete bridge to replace the single-lane timber bridge on Branchview Road over the North Branch of the Condamine River, west of Brookstead.
TRC Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald and TRC Construction and Maintenance (Infrastructure Services) portfolio spokesperson Cr Carol Taylor were joined by fellow Councillors, TRC Infrastructure Services Group staff, contractors and surrounding residents to open the project.
The $5.1 million project was jointly funded by $3.8 million through the Australian Government's Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP) and $1.3 million from the TRC.
The works also straightened the road alignment by constructing the new bridge 50 metres south of the former crossing.
Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP said: "Replacing this old timber bridge with a modern, two-lane concrete structure is a fantastic outcome for the Toowoomba Region, delivering a safer, more reliable connection for residents, local farmers and freight operators.
"The Australian Government is committed to funding infrastructure that stands the test of time, and this upgrade ensures that local traffic can move efficiently for decades to come."
Senator for Queensland, Corinne Mulholland, said: "The upgraded Branchview Road Bridge will provide a higher level of heavy vehicle access for local primary producers and associated industries well into the future.
"Replacing the former single-lane timber bridge ensures modern infrastructure that meets current transport and safety standards, while the new two-lane concrete bridge will have a much longer design life."
Mayor McDonald said Council was grateful for the Australian Government's financial contribution to the vital upgrade project.
"Council is responsible for a vast infrastructure network across our 13,000km² Region and appreciates the contribution that ensures we keep replacing aged infrastructure for residents across our rural localities, as well as our urban areas," Mayor McDonald said.
Cr Carol Taylor said the aim of the project was to improve safety and traffic efficiency, while also recognising the road as an important connection for primary producers.
"The Branchview Road Bridge supports not only the surrounding communities but plays a key role transporting agricultural produce in our Region and to the Port of Brisbane.
"The upgraded Branchview Road Bridge will provide a higher level of heavy vehicle access for our primary producers and associated industries well into the future."
Cr Taylor paid tribute to Council staff and contractors who worked on the project. Cr Taylor also thanked the surrounding community for their patience and co-operation during the project, noting that the complexity of the works meant that Branchview Road was closed at times during construction.
The SLRIP provides funding for projects that address current and emerging priorities in road infrastructure needs, with focus areas such as improving road safety, productivity, bridge renewal, road resilience, sustainability and heavy vehicle rest areas across Australia.
